Ipswich boss George Burley was left deflated after watching his side concede two "horrendous" goals at Grimsby.

Kevin Donovan evaded his marker to head Grimsby into the lead before Lee Ashcroft capitalised on a hapless backpass from John McGreal to stab home the winner.

Burley said after Saturday's defeat: "We had most of the possession and created a few chances but we can't afford to defend so badly.

"John McGreal was punished for making a bad mistake which cost us the game. If you give away goals like that you're always going to lose games.

"In football you've got to be solid at the back but, at the moment, we're not looking as strong as we did last season."

Meanwhile the club have decided to stand by disgraced defender Gary Croft.

The £540,000 signing from Blackburn was arrested last Thursday and has been charged by Suffolk police with seven driving offences.

But, in statements put out by the club, the management have decided to stick with the 25-year-old.

The player himself has apologised for the embarrassment the situation caused the club so soon after signing, but he is free to continue his Town career.

Burley said: "We will look at the situation with Gary within the next few weeks. He must be honest with us and trustworthy from now on. Things have happened since Gary has been with the club and now will wait to see how things develop."

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